'Brain Stimulation' Activities Can Lessen The Risk Of Dementia, Study Says

A new study from Mayo Clinic discovered that dementia can be prevented if seniors engage in brain stimulating activities.

According to a report, the study shows that individuals aged over 70 who are engaged in brain stimulating activities have lesser risk in developing the mild cognitive impairment. These activities may include working on a computer, crafts or engaging in social activities.

The senior author of the study, Dr. Yonas Geda shares that the persons who engage in these brain stimulating activities for at least once or twice a week had less decline in the cognitive aspect. The activities also can lessen the risk for senior people to suffer dementia.

A report indicates that although there is no definite evidence of a cause and effect of the study, the researchers found a decline on the risk. It shows 30 percent decline for individuals working on computers. For those individuals who are engaged in crafting activities show a 28 percent decline. A 23 percent decline is observed for those who are active in social activities and 23 percent for those who are active in playing games.

Aside from these stimulating activities, Sudoku and solving crossword puzzles can also be activities that can stimulate the brain. The study can actually make doctors' advice patients that active brain stimulation can help in aging.

Meanwhile, more research is needed to bring into a better conclusion that these stimulating activities for the brain can actually lead to a decline for the risk of dementia. There may be some factors that can prevent dementia but the new study is just one aspect.

The researchers also indicate that diet and exercise is also crucial for the health especially during old age. Another aspect is also the active brain activities done when the person was younger. The study can help seniors get into more activities so to stimulate the brain.